Sous Chef
Salary: £38,007 P/A + Excellent Benefits
Establishment: Prestigious College
Location: Cambridge Benefits: College Pension | Free Meals on Duty | Healthcare Cash Plan | College Bonus Scheme | Generous Holiday Allowance | Free Parking (subject to availability) | Uniform Provided
GMP Recruitment are delighted to be recruiting on behalf of one of Cambridge's most prestigious colleges for an experienced Sous Chef to join their professional and highly regarded kitchen brigade.
This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a respected collegiate environment, supporting the Head Chef in delivering exceptional food for Fellows, students, staff, conference delegates and distinguished guests. You'll play a pivotal leadership role within the kitchen, helping to maintain outstanding culinary standards while mentoring and developing the wider brigade.
The Role
As Sous Chef, you will work closely with the Head Chef to oversee the daily operation of the kitchen, leading service, supervising the brigade and ensuring food is consistently prepared and presented to the highest standards.
You will assist with menu planning, stock management, food cost control and staff development while ensuring compliance with all Food Safety, HACCP and Health & Safety legislation.
This is a full-time permanent position working 37.5 hours per week on a rota basis, including evenings, weekends and additional hours as required to meet the needs of the College.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead kitchen shifts and supervise the preparation and service of high-quality food.
- Support the Head Chef in the day-to-day management of the kitchen operation.
- Deliver exceptional dining experiences for Fellows, students, staff, guests and conference delegates.
- Assist with the planning and development of seasonal and cyclic menus.
- Develop and create signature dishes for functions and special events.
- Ensure dishes are prepared consistently to agreed recipes and presentation standards.
- Promote the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients at all times.
- Manage food ordering, stock rotation and inventory in conjunction with the Head Chef.
- Monitor food costs, minimise waste and maximise operational efficiency.
- Ensure all food hygiene, HACCP, COSHH and Health & Safety standards are maintained.
- Ensure all service areas are fully prepared, adequately staffed and maintained throughout service.
- Brief front-of-house teams on menu content prior to each service.
- Carry out regular quality checks across all food service areas.
- Support recruitment, training and ongoing development of the kitchen brigade.
- Deliver on-the-job coaching and mentor chefs to reach their full potential.
- Respond professionally to emergencies and operational challenges.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues across the College to deliver exceptional hospitality.
About You
- Minimum of 3 years' experience in a similar Sous Chef or senior kitchen leadership role.
- NVQ Level 2 & 3 in Professional Cookery (or equivalent).
- Basic Food Hygiene Certificate.
- HACCP and COSHH training.
- Strong leadership, coaching and people management skills.
- Excellent organisational and communication skills.
- Passion for producing high-quality food using fresh ingredients.
- Excellent understanding of food safety, HACCP and Health & Safety legislation.
- Able to perform under pressure while maintaining exceptional standards.
- Flexible approach to working evenings, weekends and overtime when required.
- Previous experience within a College or education catering environment would be advantageous.
What's on Offer
- Competitive salary.
- College Pension Scheme.
- Healthcare Cash Plan.
- College Bonus Scheme.
- Generous holiday allowance.
- Free meals whilst on duty.
- Free parking (subject to availability).
- Uniform provided.
- Opportunity to work within one of Cambridge's most prestigious collegiate environments.
- Excellent training, career development and progression opportunities.
- Supportive and collaborative kitchen team committed to culinary excellence.
Ready for Your Next Challenge?
If you're an experienced Sous Chef looking to take the next step in your career within one of Cambridge's most prestigious colleges, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today and become part of a passionate team dedicated to delivering exceptional food and outstanding hospitality.
GMP Recruitment are recruiting for this position on behalf of their client and are acting as an Employment Agency.
INDROB
Pay: £38,007.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Company pension
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
